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Ancient Non-functioning Imperial Valet Timer Making A Noise.

Forgive me if this is not the right place for my problem but hopefully someone can help. I have a circa 1993-1994 non-functioning Imperial Valet Timer box for an in ground sprinkler system that is wired into a wall outlet that started making an intermittent humming noise. There is some sort of reset button on the front but I'm afraid to press it. Should I call a Lawn Service to totally disconnect from the electrical outlet or an Electrician? After 19 years of never using the system, I'm wondering what triggered the noise and how to stop it.

Nearly all the Imperial Valet controllers had line cords instead of being directly wired, so you could pull the plug any time. The noise you hear is the "timing" motor that is always powered. They don't present any particular hazard, being that they consume less power than a night-light. When these motors get older, they sometimes get noisier, as gears wear and lubrication dries out.

In nearly all cases, it is cheaper to replace the Valet controller, than to repair it. The lone exception is a sprinkler system that uses Imperial brass valves, which have a power requirement that exceeds what modern solid-state controllers can supply.

Even though you never use the system, it still can have value when you sell your home, so long as you can demonstrate that it is in perfect working order. After 20 years of non-use, though, you might be better off leaving it alone and considering it as non-functional, especially if the plumbing is not up to current standards. In instances of sub-standard plumbing, it can be necessary to physically cut away the plumbing that connects the system to the water supply, in order for the home to pass the inspection that towns require.

No Plug but Thank You

Unfortunately, there is no plug to pull only conduit with wires from the timer box to the outlet. Just really want to stop the noise but I'm glad there is no electrical danger. I appreciate your expertise.
Carol

There is usually a fuse on the front face of the clock near the reset button.

You have to push the black knob in and rotate to get the fuse out.

This will kill power to the clock.

Good luck

Imperial Valet controllers are different than what you describe. Their circuitry did not keep the power transformer connected to line voltage, unless a zone was actually powered. Therefore, a fuse for its primary side wasn't really needed, and the Imperial Valet controller only has a circuit breaker for the 24-volt side of that transformer. All the controller motors run on line voltage, and as long as the controller is connected to power, the main timing motor is running.